It seems the whole world is mourning the passing of the great Maya Angelou. The Pulitzer Prize nominee was, after all, one of the greatest voices of a generation -- her books and poems touched millions of American adults. So how is it that we can explain the depth and breadth of the legendary author's influence on America to our kids?

Although she may be best known for tomes such as I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings, which is better saved for the teen years (or older), Angelou is also the author of myriad books for kids. They're a perfect way to open the doors to a conversation about Angelou, and open your child's eyes to one of the greatest authors of our time.